Howdy, everyone!

Pastor Z here, and I have something really important to talk about today. 

It’s a topic that can transform your life in a BIG way!

I want to dive into something we all struggle with at times – holding grudges. 

You know, that bitterness we carry around because of something someone did to us. 

It’s a weight on our hearts, and it’s not doing us any favors….but yet, we struggle to let go.

Here’s the truth: The grudge you are holding is not worth losing the life you're missing. 

Let’s explore this a bit together, shall we?

Here are 3 things you gotta know about THE GRUDGE you are holding and 5 practical steps towards getting set free!

#1- Heavy Lifting 

When we hold onto grudges, it's like carrying a heavy backpack filled with rocks everywhere we go. I

t drains our energy and keeps us from experiencing the joy and peace God wants for us. 

Ephesians 4:31-32 tells us to "Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."

Pause….Let’s think about that for a second. 

God forgave us through Christ – the ultimate act of love and mercy AND If God can forgive our sins, can’t we find it in our hearts to forgive those who have wronged us?

#2- Our greatest example, Jesus.

Jesus, faced unimaginable suffering and yet, in His final moments, He said, "Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). 

That’s a powerful example of forgiveness. He didn’t hold onto the pain or the injustice; instead, He let it go.

When we forgive, we’re not saying that what happened was okay. We’re saying that we trust God to handle justice and that we choose to release the hold that anger and resentment have on us. We choose freedom.

#3- Forgiveness = Freedom 

Forgiveness is freeing. 

It lifts the heavy weight off our hearts and opens the door to peace and happiness. 

Jesus promised us an ABUNDANT life (John 10:10), and part of that abundance is living without the chains of grudges and bitterness.

Forgiving others also allows us to heal and rebuild relationships. 

It lets us move forward with love and compassion, instead of being stuck in the past.

FIVE PRACTICAL steps towards forgiveness! 

I know it’s not easy, but here are some steps to help you on this journey:

1. Pray: Ask God to help you forgive. Lean on His wisdom.

2. Reflect: Think about how much God has forgiven you. Let that inspire you.

3. Release: Find healthy ways to let out your anger. Talk to a friend, write it down, or even go for a run.

4. Reconciliation: If possible, talk to the person who hurt you. It might be tough, but it can lead to healing.

5. Let Go and Move Forward: Decide to let go of the grudge. Focus on the future and trust that God is in control.

As we let go of our grudges, we open ourselves up to the wonderful life God has planned for us – a life full of joy, peace, and purpose. 

Don’t let a grudge rob you of the life you could be living!!!!

Live each day with a heart full of grace and a spirit of love.

I can’t wait to see you all this Sunday at Dream City Church at 10:30 AM. Let’s come together, forgive one another, and celebrate the amazing journey ahead. 

Bring your kids, bring your teenagers, bring your friends – let’s share this incredible journey together!

See you all SUNDAY!

Blessings,

-PZ

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